Freshman says pair sexually assaulted her at SOU

Ashland police are looking for two men suspected of sexually assaulting a freshman Southern Oregon University student early Friday, police said today.

Ashland police are looking for two men suspected of sexually assaulting a freshman Southern Oregon University student early Friday, police said today.

The victim, who is in her late teens, told police that two men sexually assaulted her near Britt Hall and Churchill Hall on the university campus at about 3 a.m. Friday, said Ashland Police Lt. Corey Falls. The woman told officers she fought against the men and escaped to safety after the assault, he said.

Details of what happened to the teen are still unclear, but the assault did not involve a rape, Lt. Falls said.

The first suspect in the case is described as white man in his 20s with a thin build, dreadlocks and an unshaven face. The second suspect is described as a white man with darker skin, an average build, a buzz cut and no facial hair.

The woman did not appear to have been physically injured in the assault, Lt. Falls said. She reported the assault to police at 11 p.m. Friday, he said.

University officials sent safety alerts to students after the reported assault.

Police are asking people walk in well lit areas, with companions if possible, and to tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return. People should also be aware of their surroundings when walking, and avoid walking with their head down or while wearing headphones. Police are asking people to report suspicious people or circumstances by calling 9-1-1.

Detectives are continuing to investigate and ask anyone with information on the case to contact the Ashland Police Department at 482-2811.